The broad purpose of the occupation is to support the class teacher to enhance learners’ progress and development either in groups or individually. Teaching Assistants ensure that learners understand their work, know their learning objectives, and display positive learning behaviours in order to make progress.
Teaching Assistants deliver individual and small group teaching and apply a range of strategies to support learners of different abilities under the professional direction and supervision of a qualified teacher. Teaching Assistants may support learners with special educational needs and disabilities and learners with social, emotional, and mental health vulnerabilities.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for delivering individual and small group teaching and adapting planning under the direction of a teacher; implementing safeguarding policies and safe practice; working effectively with other education professionals; promoting positive learning behaviours; and supporting the development of a safe and stimulating learning environment. They will work within a framework of national legislation regarding safeguarding, and within the policies and procedures of their individual education organisations.
- Taught Blended Workshops
- Named Assessor
- Assessment of practice
- Portfolio of evidence produced
- Dedicated resources
- Contribute to the overall ethos and aims of the organisation and promote diversity, inclusion, equality and acceptance of all learners in line with school policies, including by challenging stereotyped views, bullying or harassment.
- Implement safeguarding polices and safe practice, including online safety, in line with legislation, policies, and procedures including maintaining confidentiality.
- Work in partnership and liaise with other professionals (such as the teaching staff, SENDCo, or external advisors) and parents/carers to support all learners’ learning.
- Reflect on their own practice and identify appropriate professional development opportunities with the support of colleagues.
- Understand the specific needs of learners and use strategies to support all learners to achieve their learning goals.
- Promote engagement and teach learning behaviours to support the development of independent learners.
- Establish positive relationships with learners and promote positive behaviours, consistently applying the school’s behaviour policy.
- Support the social, emotional, mental health, wellbeing and personal care of all learners in line with organisational policy and procedures.
- Deliver individual and small group teaching within clearly defined/planned parameters in partnership with the teacher and other professionals.
- Contribute to assessment and planning by supporting the monitoring, recording, and reporting of learner outcomes and participation as agreed with the teacher.
- Support the development of a stimulating and safe learning environment by contributing to the selection and preparation of teaching resources that meet the diverse needs and interests of learners.
- Support or lead enrichment activities for example visits, out of school activities and in school clubs.
This qualification allows candidates to progress into employment or to the following apprenticeship standards:
- Level 3 Early Years Educator
- Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner
